The Yuvraj conundrum

Yuvraj Singh is making his third comeback since recovering from cancer, but with the breakneck and pressure-filled T20 being the only format he has to make a case for a permanent place, he has looked woefully short of confidence

As Suresh Raina hit the winning run off Marlon Samuels, the Indian dug-out hugged and high-fived their successive win in the World T20.

There was celebratory joy, but there was also a hint of relief, for India had taken a simple chase to the final over. As MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli clasped hands, Yuvraj Singh walked out. He had just taken off his gear but still wore a part disenchanted, part blank look; his eyes distant, and in sharp contrast to the jubilation around him.

Yuvraj had walked in with 23 needed off 32, consumed 19 of those for his 10 runs and had fallen dabbing a turner straight to slip. One ball later Raina ended the match.

Against Pakistan, he missed a full delivery and was bowled second ball. In both matches, he put down what could have been costly misses - Chris Gayle and Mohammad Hafeez - but India created and converted more chances soon after. His solitary over in the tournament so far went for 13.

Cricket is a game that lends itself easily to analysis, and unfortunately, to over-analysis as well. India are only two games into their campaign in a format where often, any analysis can be over-analysis. It is readily possible to argue in Yuvraj's favour: Anyone can miss a full and straight one early in his innings, especially in the T20 format which requires heavy hitting.

Yuvraj might only have wanted some time in the middle, knowing that India had plenty of deliveries left to put West Indies away, and aware that such an opportunity rarely comes in T20s. Already, many other players have spilled high catches in Mirpur, and there could be a larger reason for it. The height and positioning of the floodlights is being talked about as a possible factor. And for all his deeds with the ball in the past, Yuvraj is and has always been a part-time bowler, and it was only one over anyway.

It is the sum of all these instances, though, that invites concern. This is already Yuvraj's third comeback (of sorts) since recovering from cancer. The first time he was rushed into the 2012 World T20 having played very little competitive cricket and seemed lacking in match fitness. The second comeback also started in the shortest format, with a much leaner Yuvraj carving a match-winning, unbeaten 77 off 35 against Australia in Rajkot in October last year, before struggling in the one-dayers. The third comeback is not strict in definition, for India didn't played any T20s between the Rajkot one and the World T20.

In both the previous phases, Yuvraj has lost his place in one format each. He hasn't played a Test since December 2012, and an ODI since December 2013, missing the tour of New Zealand and the Asia Cup.

The confidence does not seem to be there. It shows in the way he has looked forlorn on the boundary after those drops instead of showing some anger or disappointment.

At the moment, T20 is the only format he has to make his case and it can be misleading for watchers to take cues from. It can also be ruthless on the player, with everything happening so fast, leaving little time to gather your thoughts. Even more so, considering it is a world event.

With bat, ball, on the field, even in the nets, Yuvraj has just not looked comfortable. The confidence does not seem to be there. It shows in the way he has looked forlorn on the boundary after those drops instead of showing some anger or disappointment. He knows, and the world knows, there is so much riding for him on this World T20. Maybe it is the pressure of that knowledge, that this is all he has left for now, at the international stage at least, that is shackling him down.

As any captain would, MS Dhoni backed his senior player after the West Indies match. "Yuvraj is the best player in T20s. Right now he is not in that good a rhythm you can say. It is a bit tough, he has been dropped from ODIs and is coming back in T20s, there is a bit of pressure on the individual. You can say it is a short format and you can go in and express yourself, but when an individual comes into the team, there is some pressure on him.

"It takes one-two matches but we are only hoping if he gets a good flow, a good game, we all know the kind of match-winner he is and he can really turn the game around on his own," Dhoni said. "I am glad he got a bit of time because it will only settle his nerves. We all know how dangerous he can be once he gets going, he will give many more victories. If Yuvi comes back, if he bats really well, he is a good asset to have a No 4."

India can arguably afford to give Yuvraj one more match in the tournament. It should ideally help that their next one is against Bangladesh and not Australia. They will be relieved if Yuvraj comes good in that. If not, they will be in a quandary against Australia. They look good to make the semi-final, and would not want to go in with a short-on-confidence Yuvraj or a short-on-match-practice Ajinkya Rahane.

I am so glad that King Yuvi got his form back. All Yuvi critics are biting the dust now. I wish he had some bowling too when Aussies were struggling. Anyway Yuvi got his form back before Semi Final and it is really awesome news now. THIS is THE WAY TO GO YUVI. Form is temporary, Yuvraj is permanent.

on March 28, 2014, 21:21 GMT

come on yuvi...we want to c u...u r a tiger.i think v all shd back yuvi to get n form...once he is in form..we will hv ths world cup in india.

on March 27, 2014, 9:27 GMT

I think he played well against Sri Lanka in the warm up game. This is his third comeback. If he is not fit he should not be given any chances but if he is fit he should be given some time to get into his mode. Once he gets the confidence other teams would lose confidence irrespective of which bowler is bowling. Would he be able to repeat a stuart broad in this T20 world cup ? This is too much of asking but he is that kind of a player once he gets his confidence. Stick with him throughout the tournament as he may win matches from any critical situation. Hope it happens during a critical stage of this tournament.

on March 27, 2014, 6:47 GMT

Fire him!!!! He has got fair number of chances and has not performed.

Amit_M30
on March 27, 2014, 3:46 GMT

I know Yuvraj is not doing well and probably Rahane should be given a shot. And I know that I would be emotional and biased to still favour him, but give it to my era of cricketers an that he is probably the last of them (ganguly discoveries). I would love to see him get back to being himself. Because I know that when that happens, it will be sweeter than anything else in recent history of Indian cricket. When Yuvi is in full flow, it's the best view on cricket field, specially his mid-wicket sixes. I know I will be in tears, nostalgic with memories of the last decade. This time for Yuvi!

on March 27, 2014, 2:41 GMT

I don't even feel like watching highlights when yuvi does not perform...come on yuvi...please play your natural game...because if you don't perform they'll kick you out anyways :(

GO YUVI!
GOOD LUCK WE ARE WITH YOU!

on March 27, 2014, 0:59 GMT

I believe yuvi is still one of the best match winner in the world. .

on March 26, 2014, 21:46 GMT

Lots of Yuvi fans have written about Yuvi's exploits at the World Cups. So does that mean we the Team has to carry him while he is in probably the worst form of his life in an important Tournament. Its not Yuvraj we know but just a shell of the man we know. Its foolish to write him off or end his career but he has to rested based on his current form. There is zero footwork zero confidence zero indication of any turnaround. Nobody is bigger than the Team.

on March 26, 2014, 21:20 GMT

We all could see Yuvraj is somehow disoriented when he dropped the catch against Pakistan. The drop never worried us 'cause it happens always. But what worried us was Yuvi's reaction. It was like an outsider trying to be fit in the family and making a terrible mistake. But when he'll start to believe himself again , thinking himself as an inseparable part of the team, there will be no stopping him. Of course the team, team management have to give him the confidence, but probably all Indian cricket fans also owe him that, to back him when he is not on his best of the mind set.

on March 26, 2014, 21:06 GMT

"Yuvraj has just not looked comfortable. The confidence does not seem to be there" ..for me that sums up the whole article and the and gives the answer to the question 'whether or not keep Yuvi in the team'. And my answer is YES...If a Yuvraj Singh scores consecutive 20 ducks, he'll still be on my 50/20 overs team.Anywhere against any opponent. It's the team and team management's duty (and I think he has earned that) to give him the confidence. Because we all know, once he has that in him, he can win a whole tournament by himself for the team.

on March 30, 2014, 20:50 GMT

I am so glad that King Yuvi got his form back. All Yuvi critics are biting the dust now. I wish he had some bowling too when Aussies were struggling. Anyway Yuvi got his form back before Semi Final and it is really awesome news now. THIS is THE WAY TO GO YUVI. Form is temporary, Yuvraj is permanent.

on March 28, 2014, 21:21 GMT

come on yuvi...we want to c u...u r a tiger.i think v all shd back yuvi to get n form...once he is in form..we will hv ths world cup in india.

on March 27, 2014, 9:27 GMT

I think he played well against Sri Lanka in the warm up game. This is his third comeback. If he is not fit he should not be given any chances but if he is fit he should be given some time to get into his mode. Once he gets the confidence other teams would lose confidence irrespective of which bowler is bowling. Would he be able to repeat a stuart broad in this T20 world cup ? This is too much of asking but he is that kind of a player once he gets his confidence. Stick with him throughout the tournament as he may win matches from any critical situation. Hope it happens during a critical stage of this tournament.

on March 27, 2014, 6:47 GMT

Fire him!!!! He has got fair number of chances and has not performed.

Amit_M30
on March 27, 2014, 3:46 GMT

I know Yuvraj is not doing well and probably Rahane should be given a shot. And I know that I would be emotional and biased to still favour him, but give it to my era of cricketers an that he is probably the last of them (ganguly discoveries). I would love to see him get back to being himself. Because I know that when that happens, it will be sweeter than anything else in recent history of Indian cricket. When Yuvi is in full flow, it's the best view on cricket field, specially his mid-wicket sixes. I know I will be in tears, nostalgic with memories of the last decade. This time for Yuvi!

on March 27, 2014, 2:41 GMT

I don't even feel like watching highlights when yuvi does not perform...come on yuvi...please play your natural game...because if you don't perform they'll kick you out anyways :(

GO YUVI!
GOOD LUCK WE ARE WITH YOU!

on March 27, 2014, 0:59 GMT

I believe yuvi is still one of the best match winner in the world. .

on March 26, 2014, 21:46 GMT

Lots of Yuvi fans have written about Yuvi's exploits at the World Cups. So does that mean we the Team has to carry him while he is in probably the worst form of his life in an important Tournament. Its not Yuvraj we know but just a shell of the man we know. Its foolish to write him off or end his career but he has to rested based on his current form. There is zero footwork zero confidence zero indication of any turnaround. Nobody is bigger than the Team.

on March 26, 2014, 21:20 GMT

We all could see Yuvraj is somehow disoriented when he dropped the catch against Pakistan. The drop never worried us 'cause it happens always. But what worried us was Yuvi's reaction. It was like an outsider trying to be fit in the family and making a terrible mistake. But when he'll start to believe himself again , thinking himself as an inseparable part of the team, there will be no stopping him. Of course the team, team management have to give him the confidence, but probably all Indian cricket fans also owe him that, to back him when he is not on his best of the mind set.

on March 26, 2014, 21:06 GMT

"Yuvraj has just not looked comfortable. The confidence does not seem to be there" ..for me that sums up the whole article and the and gives the answer to the question 'whether or not keep Yuvi in the team'. And my answer is YES...If a Yuvraj Singh scores consecutive 20 ducks, he'll still be on my 50/20 overs team.Anywhere against any opponent. It's the team and team management's duty (and I think he has earned that) to give him the confidence. Because we all know, once he has that in him, he can win a whole tournament by himself for the team.

on March 26, 2014, 20:40 GMT

Yuvraj Singh looked like a " zombie " on the field. Watch the replays of the catches he dropped, the manner in which he got out, in both the matches and the one over that he bowled. See his performance in the field. Do you see a Yuvraj Singh anywhere?

on March 26, 2014, 20:16 GMT

He is Lion, and he never quits his territory......Once he starts no one can compare with him even Gayle too.I know him personally he is nt just a player or athlete HE IS PREDATOR

on March 26, 2014, 20:06 GMT

I think he should stay, confidence if he gains it, he will tear apart anyone anyday, On a lucky charm note, he was in a bad form in start of T20 world cup 2007 too, we all remember what happened after that( arent u smiling reading the last line)

on March 26, 2014, 17:26 GMT

yuvi !!! how can u thankless ppl yhnk f replacing him
pls must rembba wat he has did fo team !! yuvi paaji the player who alwys played for team never for self !! nd throw ashwin out bring bhaji in

on March 26, 2014, 17:21 GMT

I think Rahane should open with Dhawan and Rohit drop to 5 or 6 with Raina in his current form coming in at 4. Either ways the Rohit as Opener in ODIs and T2os Experiment needs to end. He'll make a capable lower middle order bat - can hit as well as stay calm.

on March 26, 2014, 17:05 GMT

Mistake..............................needs to be shown the door .........

He is over...........NOT MATCH FIT ANYMORE

His selfish tactics to remain in the team r only hurting IND

on March 26, 2014, 16:15 GMT

its sad to read so much criticism about yuvi,man who won two world cups for india sigle handedly, comon yuvi show these thankless people how capable you are, best of luck.

bhushanB
on March 26, 2014, 14:35 GMT

@GRVJPR

Agree with you that Rahane has not done much in 30 odd ODIs.... I believe that captain's confidence in the player.. and a clear head to not worry about the place in the team at least for a good 10 matches in a row (unless you have a single digit scores 5 times in a row...Oh wait.. Rohit had such poor consecutive scores in the past and still had a consistent run in the team....or a wickeless matches for 5 in a row.....oh wait.. looks like someone pointed that Ashwin had such a run and still features in the team)....is important for a player to unfold and grow...

What has Rohit done in the 30+....50+...I am not sure....will have to check the stats page.. has he played 100 ODIs yet?

Whether it is past champions like Yuvi...or domestic heroes like Rahane.... or an attacking leggie like Mishra.......captain's backing and trust are very important.

bhushanB
on March 26, 2014, 14:22 GMT

Totally agree with you....use the same yardstick for everyone.. and if performance is the key.. then kick off ashwin, jadeja and rohit before touching Yuvi...
(with the hope that ishant is kicked off for at least a year)

Personally I prefer Rahane... but I do not mind if he misses out in the T-20 format.. I would rather have him grow in the ODI and TEST formats..

@tanstell87
If mediocre & listless R Ashwin can play all ODIs in South Africa & New Zealand by picking 1 wicket in 8 ODIs( 3 vs SA + 5 vs NZ ) & 1 Test then Yuvraj can play rest of the World Cup matches...he has been a matchwinner unlike R Ashwin & Rohit...Rahane can wait his chance will soon come when India finally decide to do away with inconsistent Rohit....

on March 26, 2014, 13:14 GMT

I think its all been really unfair for yuvraj.He had been in really good form even till that t-20 agnst aus.And then overnight it like vanished.Considering his history yuvraj only needs one good innings and he is back to form.And I think india should keep him all along bcoz he could jus be helpful for india In any game..say perhaps a last ball situation

He is a proven match winner. Can't we give a man couple of matches who has won us 2 world cups single handedly and will win us this one as well. Watch out for his innings in semi n finals.

on March 26, 2014, 12:02 GMT

When rohit fails 10 times why no one questions him. This is plain hippoccracy.

Deedee2013
on March 26, 2014, 11:56 GMT

Right now, Rahane is the best choice. Yuvi can still get back to form at home before joining the team. Current form must take precedence, else India will lose a confident Rahane.

landl47
on March 26, 2014, 11:50 GMT

I think many of his fans (and at least one IPL franchise) are reluctant to remember that this isn't the Yuvi of 2007, belting 21-year old Broad for 6 sixes. He's older, has been through a hard battle against cancer and doesn't have the panache or the co-ordination of the younger Yuvi. He really shouldn't be in the side and wouldn't be except that in Indian cricket charisma sometimes outweighs merit.

India has plenty of other options and it's time for Yuvi to go.

on March 26, 2014, 11:36 GMT

look at shahid afridi out of 15 matches he wins one for Pakistan boom boom afridi is still the integral part of the pakistan's team yuvi should be given the same comfort zone though yuvis performances are way ahead than afridis. come on guys back him fighting cancer fighting odds fighting for his place .Cricket has been his passion and a fighter to the core cheers UVEEE

ms2000
on March 26, 2014, 11:32 GMT

Yuvi is still a great batsmen in todays Inernational Cricket. Its just that he goes through a bad patch. Just give him one more chance and he will show what he is capable of and silence his critics back at home. Good luck Yuvi and hope to se eyou at your best
From Sri Lanka

ms2000
on March 26, 2014, 11:31 GMT

Yuvi is still a great batsmen in todays Inernational Cricket. Its just that he goes through a bad patch. Just give him one more chance and he will show what he is capable of and silence his critics back at home. Good luck Yuvi and hope to se eyou at your best
From Sri Lanka

on March 26, 2014, 11:10 GMT

He won us the WC...before we all forget...all he is lacking is CONFIDENCE and some self belief at the moment, he can still hold the bat and hasnt forgotten how to catch...when your down all is affected...he still has a future with T20 and ODI team for sure... #TrustYuvi #InDhoniWeTrust if anyone can give him the emotional support he needs is Captain MArvel...Yuvvie needs a shoulder...and he will bounce back I am 110% sure of it

on March 26, 2014, 10:39 GMT

Give yuvraj just one more chance against bangladesh!!!!! Hearts of millions of indians hope that he regains his golden touch.Unfortunately if not then give rahane a chance. he is raring to go.

on March 26, 2014, 10:36 GMT

it is only matter of time for yuvi .he showed us many times what a great player he is .he can destroy any bowling attack on his day.so keep calm guys .i do not think any one else has such talent to replace yuvi currently .

tanstell87
on March 26, 2014, 10:22 GMT

If mediocre & listless R Ashwin can play all ODIs in South Africa & New Zealand by picking 1 wicket in 8 ODIs( 3 vs SA + 5 vs NZ ) & 1 Test then Yuvraj can play rest of the World Cup matches...he has been a matchwinner unlike R Ashwin & Rohit...Rahane can wait his chance will soon come when India finally decide to do away with inconsistent Rohit....

sondipon
on March 26, 2014, 10:13 GMT

yuvi has been a great cricketer for india...but right now he is completely out of form... to keep giving chances to an individual to bounce back into form is far less important than playing as an in-form team to win a coveted trophy.....at the moment it is obvious that Rahane is in much good form than Yuvraj....Dhoni should make some important decisions rather than always backing up a player who does not seem likely to contribute to the team...........'Drop Yuvi and bring Rahane in'-is a key mantra if india really wants to win the T20 world cup

on March 26, 2014, 10:06 GMT

I think Yuvi is a worth bait for the 2015 ODI World cup and needs little more chance. I think one of Binny and Irfan Pathan can be standby for him as an alrounder who will bat in the lower middle order.

JewelJoseph
on March 26, 2014, 10:05 GMT

Yuvi's rustiness in batting and bowling can be excused to some extent as he was out of action for sometime.But there is no excuse for dropping such sitters.He is awfully low in confidence.While he bats,he looks so worried about the short ball.In the field,he is struggling to give even a single full blooded chase.What a contrast to the 'flying singh' he once was! And to be frank,he doesnt look fit to me.Especially after the 'vigorous fitness regime' he was supposedly going through.Even then,Yuvi is one of the most natural cricketing talent around and I am sure he has some more years of cricket left in him.He can be given opportunities to regain his touch in some relatively unimportant series.But picking Yuvi in a pressure tournament like this doesn't look safe now.

on March 26, 2014, 10:00 GMT

The only player who hits six sixes in an over against fast bowler, that is his standard, he doesn't want to prove what he can. No one can replace yuvi, give him enough chances, he might be struggling now, but he will come back. . he hits 2 fifties in his last 3 matches before this world cup. The player who have 15 years of international experience but still treated as a very young cricketer. he have not even get a single chance to lead the indian team (even raina , gambhir and sehwag gets) purely politics. As a big fan of yuvi, I will say it is good to retire instead playing with dhoni & co.

on March 26, 2014, 9:00 GMT

the TEAM is always above any individual who is part of it. Yuvraj has to be dropped, he should realise himself that he is only occupying one place in the team that someone else better deserves. we love you yuvi and will always do.. you on your own made us win the world cup 2011.

checkOnCricket
on March 26, 2014, 8:52 GMT

@Madhu.mac : "If he play with SANJU SAMSON , it will give him confidence to Hit Huge Sixes out of the Stadium". Is this statement a Sarcastic comment ??.. Why should yuvi play along with Sanju Samson to get his confidence back ???

As a Die Hard Fan of YUVI, i want him to continue in remaining matches.If he play with SANJU SAMSON , it will give him confidence to Hit Huge Sixes out of the Stadium.

checkOnCricket
on March 26, 2014, 7:55 GMT

Yuvraj is just 32 and he still can give 3 - 4 years of his best to indian cricket. We still won't learn anything from australian cricket board. People keep talking about age and young team and future when Mr.Cricket made debut he was around 28.

Yuvraj is a tremedous talent and no one can deny that. Right Now he is going through a rough patch and who else didn't?????. Please stop being rubbish by talking about his age or youngsters replacing him and give him some chance to regain his form. if he regains his confidence and touch he would like 10 Rahane's .

When People like Raina, Jadeja, Rohit gets so many chances why not a champion and true spirited player like Yuvi?????. If age is the only Concern many great cricketers in the world would have not even made a debut...

kmguhan
on March 26, 2014, 7:42 GMT

The days are already gone for yuvi. This is the time to induct talented youngster in his position. Sanju samson may be a fair choice.

ProdigyA
on March 26, 2014, 7:40 GMT

As a die hard fan if the Rockstar Yuvi it's just hard to see him struggle like this. He changed the way India fielded and was such a huge matchwinner.

on March 26, 2014, 7:11 GMT

We are re-enacting the long drama of the Sachin conundrum; in the form of Yuvraj conundrum? Don't we learn anything from the past?

on March 26, 2014, 7:07 GMT

Individual OR the country?

Using international matches for regaining form to a man who was great in the past, shaky in the present, around 30, and with uncertain form & fitness for the future; OR investing in one of the youngsters for the future?

An emotional decision ; OR a rational one, keeping the future of Indian cricket in mind?

Whichever way you look at it, the answer is crystal clear.

on March 26, 2014, 7:05 GMT

Media and some unknown cricket analysts are there to spoil a champion's career.
What he has not done for india..Still people are ready to criticize him. Even if he is not performing..still indian cricket team has to give him chance for both the world cups..! becouse no one has givein india a world cup after 1983....he never thought about his health and he played with the heart for our country.. and he dedicated it for our true legend Sachin...!! it means he delivered it for all indians...!!
if rohit..and dhawan...can get more opportunities..., yuvi deserves it for atleast till 2015 world cup...!!! on behalf of all true indian cricket fans, we loves him doing great knocks for india..you can see that in upcoming games!! He is a real fighter !@ ..To All,Please don't give more mental pressure from outside to a great players like him..!! Best wishes for yuvi..We are there to pray for you!

on March 26, 2014, 6:51 GMT

its sad that a terrible illness is the reason for yuvi's cricket downfall..he was in the form of his life in 2011 wc..he is the biggest reason why ind won wc..he performed terrifically with both bat and ball..he was also more matured by then both on and off the field.If not for that terrible illness, yuvi would have gone past 20 odi 100's by now by playing many more match winning knocks..yuvi' career is one of the greatest tragedies cricket has ever seen.At the moment cricket doesnt seem to be so passionate to him as it used to be..that ''how many more years in life?? ''question may also be haunting him..its really a sad story..hope God helps yuvi..

tariqshah
on March 26, 2014, 6:25 GMT

The BCCI must change their policy and have more Indian fringe or out of form players get exposure with a whole season of English county cricket. Look at what it did to Zaheer Khan's career. Players like Yuvraj, Gambhir, Sehwag and Irfan Pathan need to play more to resurrect their careers before it is too late.

on March 26, 2014, 5:58 GMT

Lets not forget we won the 2011 world cup because of him.

The most Man-of-the-Match awards for a player
Yuvraj Singh, who scored 362 runs and picked up 15 wickets, became only the third player after Aravinda de Silva and Lance Klusener to win four Man-of-the-Match awards in one World Cup. He also became the fourth player and second Indian after Kapil Dev to achieve the double of 300 runs and ten wickets in a single World Cup.

on March 26, 2014, 5:57 GMT

I think Yuvi's shelf value for national team is done. His reflexes are slow and his fielding has deteriorated and nothing special to talk about his bowling. He has been a tremendous player who won many a match for India (including string of good scores in 2011 world cup) but now he has to pave way for a youngster. Thanks Yuvi for the great contributions u made and wish u luck!!!

on March 26, 2014, 5:48 GMT

Yuvraj has done his part. No doubt he is a great talent and he has played a lot of exceptional innings. But I feel now time has come for him to hang his boots.

keecha
on March 26, 2014, 5:18 GMT

From what I saw, Yuvi isn't watching the ball well and is trying premeditated shots. I was baffled when he got a short ball with width outside off begging to be cut for a six but he pulled it, under edging it and the ball went to mid wicket fielder. No run. Another factor is that he tries to come on the front foot to nudge the ball for a single. He would be better off curbing his front foot strokes and apply only back foot strokes till he finds himself back in the groove. But fortunately, Yuvi has looked more hopeless than this before but had come back really strong. he is a confidence player and i really wish he bounces back and becomes a hero and match winner again.

Machu.mac
on March 26, 2014, 5:15 GMT

Along with YUVI Bring SANJU SAMSON. HE has great Talent in T20. He can Hit Sixes along the ground easily.

on March 26, 2014, 5:10 GMT

I feel it is time to move on from Yuvraj . He has nothing to prove. Nobody can deny the fact that he is India's third biggest match winner next only to Sachin and Dhoni. He is clearly past his best. To be able to play cricket after recovering from cancer itself is an achievement. So there is no point in backing a player who is past his best and age is also not on his side.

checkOnCricket
on March 26, 2014, 5:01 GMT

Guys ... I don't understand how people can speak anything about a player without even thinking what the player has contributed and what he is capable. DHONI with all the pressure of being a captain of one of the Most Cricket Loving Nation , also has shown great performances with this bat and amazing performances with his Keeping.
I feel whatever Dhoni does still people expect more and more from a player if the player performs... Dhoni so far has been doing his responsibilities PERFECTLY WELL.

Indian_Kari_Pakku
on March 26, 2014, 4:43 GMT

Yuvraj is the most overrated player in the Indian squad after R Jadeja.

checkOnCricket
on March 26, 2014, 4:42 GMT

@opd3.16 : Please check yuvraj's record in ODI.His average is in 36 and has scored 13 hundreds and 51 half centuries. He is a classy batsmen and he is the only batsmen after Virat who could go for the kill right from the word go. He has already proved that he can bat in any conditions.

A good Fielder and more than a useful bowler. He was groomed well by Dada and still has many years of cricket to play for india.

opd3.16
on March 26, 2014, 4:28 GMT

people who are comparing MSD with Yuvi,, remember Dhoni is doing all three parts which he does so well i.e. captaincy, keeping and batting for his nation.. & Yuvi is in the team only for hitting sixes,, don't you think Dhoni is doing that thing too for his team.. so dare to compare MSD with Yuvi(ladie's format specialist)

on March 26, 2014, 4:23 GMT

It is time to say good-bye to Yuvraj. We have no right to prevent the in form Rahane from playing the next match. Yuvraj has achieved great feats in the past. and the cricket world will remember them for ever. Good-bye!

on March 26, 2014, 4:21 GMT

India could have improved their net run rate in both matches. They have missed that chance. Now one loss and they could be out of WT20 like last time. In the 2nd game it was Yuvraj lack of cofidence dented an early finish. He lacks cofidence big time. With his current mindset and cofidence it is better to have another player in his place.

opd3.16
on March 26, 2014, 4:18 GMT

Yuvraj is not as good as every indian fans think he is... it's not about form only, it's about pure class too, which he doesn't have to show in a consistent basis. I think he is in this T20(ladie's format of the game) side only because of his six hitting ability, and not in the ODI or TEST side because he doesn't have enough class & temperament to perform in those two formats now. But now a days even in T20's he is not performing well enough even in the field he is dropping catches at important time, so it's time to leave now, because this is not his club team, this is all about representing your nation, & lots of talents are waiting to fill that spot... above all, you can't compare Yuvi with Raina & Dhoni,, remember whenever Yuvraj played a good innings, either it is with Dhoni or Dhoni is yet to come to bat.. but Raina plays lots of good little innings after Dhoni's dismissals too,, which Yuvi also did, but during Ganguly's captancy,, never in recent times...

Great_Chucker
on March 26, 2014, 4:09 GMT

@ vallavarayar how about bringing back Ranatunga...greatest fielder,great batsman and above all great fitness guy... to SL

checkOnCricket
on March 26, 2014, 4:08 GMT

I hope the Indian Selectors does not consider yuvraj like another Kaif or Kanitkar. Yuvraj is one of the incredible talent that india has produced and he is been back from a major physical illness. I am confident that he will be back with a great knock and will continue to play for our country and produce miracles as he has always done. he need to talk to someone get out all those fears and should deal with the lack of confidence soon.

Dhoni should also give yuvraj confidence and should say that he would be playing for considerable amount of matches and therby yuvraj would feel secured enough to concentrate on his batting.

mysecretme
on March 26, 2014, 3:56 GMT

As I have said before, it will only take a couple of lofted shots down the ground to get Yuvi's confidence back. He needs to start hitting the ball back over the bowlers head in the V. Everything else will sort itself out. For that, he needs to start getting his front foot forward and eyes looking at the ball.
If the ball is not in the zone, he needs to play defensively and if it is there, he needs to hit it decisively. Once he gets this, the bowlers will start bowling short and he can start hitting them anywhere he chooses.
Yuvraj, Pierterson, Lara, Tendulkar, Raina, Ponting, Sehwag... all these guys are stroke makers. They are better off playing down the ground and adjusting if the ball is short and not the other way around.

on March 26, 2014, 3:14 GMT

You will be back with bang. We believe in him.
anybody can tell why raina is still there from last 2 years. Just because of fielding we have carried burden of M. Kaif same way. Even Dhoni other than captaincy has not performed well as baseman.

ani..
on March 26, 2014, 2:44 GMT

anybody thinking of having Yuvraj open the innings against BD along with Dhawan(preferably Rahane)? Rohit should take Yuvraj 's position as a finisher as he is comfortable in that position. This promotion will do Yuvraj 's confidence a world of good.

on March 26, 2014, 1:44 GMT

Let us wish Yuvraj for all he has done to Indian Cricket. Now that he is not confident of himself, let us leave him alone for the present and get ahead. All along he has been an inspiration for many. While getting him replaced in the coming games, let us also give him what he deserves

on March 26, 2014, 1:40 GMT

I don't think a cricketer can go "out-of-form". Its only a mental barrier. Someone like a Sachin had physical limitations imposed by age towards the end of his career but Yuvraj is still young! Yes the media is being a little too harsh on him, but they aren't entirely wrong. The selectors picked him based on his glorious past rather than his current run in domestic cricket. Even so, how could Yuvraj fail so miserably in ODIs against Aus right after that whirlwind 77 of 35 against the same opposition in a shorter format? Its all about your mental space. What he needs is a good counseling. He's now that insecure kid being bullied by the media that his place is at stake. Yuvraj has a few good performances at the domestic and T20I level to suggest he hasn't lost his reflexes. He still has his mojo! Don't just give him more time; give him more support and a peaceful counseling. We all know what he's capable of. Good luck Yuvraj Singh! We believe in you (:

cricket0580
on March 25, 2014, 23:55 GMT

Very well written article. He has gone back in his own shell and very well short of confidence.I also believe he is not comfortable being in the team when he does not contribute. Its hard to make a comeback but I believe its not fair on other players who can probably do a better job. Thats the nature of professional sports. If Yuvraj is not able to make a comeback against BD then he might as well play IPL. He has given so many good years to India and perhaps now is the time to bow down!

Dejected_Indian_Fan
on March 25, 2014, 23:05 GMT

Time to gracefully retire....We need to groom Rahane as we need an experienced side for the 2015 World Cup...I agree Yuvi is a great player. But with his illness, he has lost the physical capacity to perform at the top level. He could still score a 25 ball 50 against Bangladesh, but that doesn't mean he is back to form. He is clearly struggling.

Yuvi_Fan_T20
on March 25, 2014, 22:18 GMT

I agree with Temuzin completely..
For all those who think Yuvi shud not play now, For all those who made faces when he got out (including Rohit Sharma), For all those who think Ravindra Jadeja is better, I would like to say Just WAIT and Watch!!!
Selectors\team management should not become wise overnight and drop him, if they can show half the amount patience they have shown for Jadeja\Rohit, Yuvi is again going to win world cup for us!!!

Coolcapricorn
on March 25, 2014, 22:00 GMT

Ever since he came into the team after his cancer, he strangely seems totally lethargic in not only his performances on the field but his general demeanour too. Even though he is a proven match winner & has played a large part in India winning two World Cups, the next two matches should determine whether he still has any future with India. His bowling contributions seem to have disappeared, fielding is now poor & his batting is scratchy at best! Time to perform Yuvi!!!

on March 25, 2014, 21:56 GMT

Only Yuvraj can solve the Yuvraj conundrum.

Ali584
on March 25, 2014, 21:33 GMT

Let him play his cricket, he will take little time and will prove himself again. And then all of you will be praising him. Also don't forget his services for cricket and India. Insha Allah we will see him action soon!!!!!
He is a good person, Yuvraj wish you good luck from Pakistan!!!

Navraj1967
on March 25, 2014, 21:15 GMT

Yuvi deserves few more chances as he will bounce back any time. You can't say a player after 10 years of play that he doesn't have a capability to play.. You must be joking. We should never drop him from ODI and please don't think of dropping him from T20. This will be ridicolous. No matter how old Lion is will never stop hunting.. So as Yuvi he will come back and will rock with the bat, balling and fielding as well. How many players has hit 6 six in one before. He has such kind of personality.

on March 25, 2014, 21:09 GMT

Its a tactical mistake by selectors. If they wanted Yuvi in T20 WC then they should have selected him and Raina for Asia cup as well. This would have given him and Raina match practice and confidence. Without match practice, form and confidence drafting a player in WC is mindless. Good India got two easy outing in second innings else Dhoni would have been singing different song for Yuvi.

LeftBrain
on March 25, 2014, 21:07 GMT

It is hard on him as there is a huge pressure of Indian bench strength. There are couple of good replacements already waiting for place in playing eleven. And he has to make his case for both T20 and ODI (and even tests) with his performance in this situation. This is just bad timing for him I guess and may be he is walking on very thin ice, for the last time. For one Yuvi in India, there are three of have-beens in Pakistan team (not really have beens, could have beens is a better word) in Shoaib Malik, Kamran Akmal and Mohammad Hafeez. Add Sohail Tanvir and Wahab Riaz to the list and you have a complete list of reasons why Pakistan fails every now and then.

bhushanB
on March 25, 2014, 19:55 GMT

Now do not get me wrong that I wanted Yuvi to play in WC 2015 in AUS/NZ....but at home conditions... Yuvi and raina are great assets... in T-20 both can play.. and may be in Home ODIs you can alternate between them....

My best bet... give him some real support and confidence... MEAN it when you say you support a player.. whether it is Mishra or Bhuvi or Rahane

Some players enjoy this luxury...like Ashwin, Jadeja, Rohit, Ishant...raina
( I guess everyone saw the difference between a wicket-to-wicket bowler like Jadeja and a Wicket taking bowler like Mishra... When there is so much difference in a T-20...where all you need to do is to contain... Imagine how it would have been if Mishra or Ojha were given the Captain's confidence in the TEST format.. where they truly belong... (BTW good to see Mishra not bowl those mid-pitch hit-me short stuff...still long way to go)

bhushanB
on March 25, 2014, 19:50 GMT

Everyone saw the way Mishra was bowling when he had a bit of support from the captain...which looks like Dhoni is forced to provide that support (which would never have occurred if not for Kohli to pick Mishra for Asia cup)

As rumour would have it... things were not really good between Yuvi & Dhoni since the days of deepika padukone... or the days when Yuvi was the Vice captain (was he ever....).... since then Dhoni's support to Yuvi.. has always looked like a double edged sword.. it looks like he backs him... but does he really?

bhushanB
on March 25, 2014, 19:47 GMT

If you ask my honest opinion... Dhoni is putting extra pressure on YUVI.. with his statements like "he will play better in the next game" etc...

Dhoni has already predicted (some say planned) Yuvi's exit.. when he initiated Raina@4 (which back fired and an utter flop and costed Raina hist place in the ODI altogether)...he said... "it will be good to have Yuvi for WC 2015, but in case he is not available for whatever reason he wanted to have a backup.. and so started Raina@4 gromming raina for that position.....

Tony36
on March 25, 2014, 19:38 GMT

Let's face it he no longer is the player we once admired. He looks removed from the game and somewhat lost. Perhaps it is time to let him sit out some games before he begins to cost games for India.

on March 25, 2014, 19:31 GMT

Yuvraj could be the another one who could be sidelined after SEHWAG,GHAMBHIR but he is still the best and in all those two matches it looked very clear that DHONI and hi co are totally ignoring him.. and he is not getting that respect which he desrves..

Captain_Tuk_Tuk
on March 25, 2014, 19:26 GMT

Its like people were criticizing Afridi when he had 6, 7 bad months and Misbah even dropped him from the team for India tour and Champion's Trophy but we all can see where he stands now, he completes the balance of Pakistan's team.

I am sure Yuvraj Singh will come back and there is no second thought on this one. Mark my words Yuvi is a match winner and a game changer all the best to him from a Pakistani fan :)

on March 25, 2014, 19:13 GMT

Yuvraj had had a lot of time out due to his health and does not even look like a shadow of his former self. this is an important tournament and we should not risk playing him in more games when he is less likely to perform. it's best to bring him back after the world t20. someone else in his position can make a difference between a win and a loss.

on March 25, 2014, 19:04 GMT

Either a player is in form or not. Trying to find form once the tournament has started is ridiculous! No team can afford such a luxury!

Rahane has been in form since the tours SA and NZ and has an excellent IPL record. It is stupid not to have him in the lineup instead of a struggling Yuvraj. One cannot survive on past performances, fantastic as they were.

on March 25, 2014, 18:27 GMT

People still continue to question him, but he is a big match player. Go back to 2007 world cup, people questioned him then also. But then there was England and australia, 2 crucial games and he scored BIG. 70 of 30 balls against Australia and Against England everyone knows what he did to Stuart broad. 2011 world cup, big game against WI, quarterfinal against Australia. Its too early to write off Yuvraj.

on March 25, 2014, 18:24 GMT

How many match winning innings have Rohit and Jadeja produced in international t20s ? How much consistent they have been ? And here media starts bashing a known match-winner who is going through a bad patch on the basis of a 2 match failure ?
I agree he should nit have been picked for the tournament but now he has been , we gotta really back him.

on March 25, 2014, 18:05 GMT

Yuvraj-India, Dilshan-Srilanka, Shoaib - Pakistan well dont you see a co-relation. Who will take the call

on March 25, 2014, 18:02 GMT

Yuvraj, has and will do better against Australia than Bangladesh.

on March 25, 2014, 17:59 GMT

He is an overrated player :p

on March 25, 2014, 17:46 GMT

Champion player! Never forget he was man of the series of WC! He will bounce back.

vallavarayar
on March 25, 2014, 17:45 GMT

They've made a mistake. They should've brought tendulkar instead of yuvi.

on March 25, 2014, 17:35 GMT

May be he can play after Raina.., he is great batsman, he need Dhoni is other side as better supporter, we have look at all Past great matches.. we know they are The best finishers.. Yv we want you to just say "I am back !" after 50* in next match...

on March 25, 2014, 17:32 GMT

Good article...

glen1
on March 25, 2014, 17:30 GMT

India has a way of allowing their senior players struggle before being dropped. The writing is on the wall, even if he does well against BD, he will be plucked out by Australia. Time to move on, the crowds have liked him and have given him good reception at comebacks.

LegSpinBowlr
on March 25, 2014, 17:30 GMT

Hope Yuvi joins the party soon rather than becoming a party popper, all the best Yuvi all our wishes are with you

Temuzin
on March 25, 2014, 17:29 GMT

Its amazing how media can ignore series of failures of certain players (Rohit Sharma in particular) and start over analyzing two failure of a proven match winner who is trying to make a come back. Cut him some slack. Will you? He will roar back soon. Have faith in him, because if he starts playing he will win matches on his own.

on March 25, 2014, 17:27 GMT

Yuvraj has never done anything to make anyone mistake him for a team man. He has an IPL contract over $2m kicking in over the next few weeks. His place in the India team probably doesn't bother him in the least.That's Yuvraj.

Amar_bw
on March 25, 2014, 17:27 GMT

Yuvraj was one of the greatest Indian player in shorter formats of cricket. His contribution to winning ODI and T20I world cups is the most significant. But I hate to say that I think he has past his golden days. I have a lot of respect for him. I would prefer him to retire from international cricket with respect unless somehow he manages to find his form in upcoming IPL. As far as the current T20I, Rahane should get chance now, earlier the better.

Karunk
on March 25, 2014, 17:26 GMT

Selectors made a mistake by including him in the team for this tournament which needs players who are in excellent touch and form. It does not give any player to settle down and get back his form. India lost a chance of improving their run rate by sending Yuvraj 2 down against WI and the match got dragged to 20th over. They will realize this mistake when 3 teams in their group end up with 6 points. India needs to replace him with Rahane before it is too late and lose a golden chance for qualifying.

HopefulIndianCricFan2
on March 25, 2014, 17:22 GMT

I feel sorry for Yuvraj singh. He used to be this confident player that can demolish any attack in the world. From his body language you can easily see that he is not very confident. I think he still has a couple of years in him.

At least for this T20 world cup, he should not be picked anymore. India made a big blunder by not upping the run rate with WI. WI won today and they have NRR of +1.752. I somehow get a feeling that its gonna hurt us.

Coming back to Yuvi, he can get back to form by playing domestic & IPL matches. Once he proves that he will himself feel confident and he can be back in the team doing what he does best.

ranga41
on March 25, 2014, 17:17 GMT

At last some foccus on the Yuvraj conundrum.Otherwise it seemed like everybody ,officials, captain, team mates, the media, was scared to even mention his name!Just consider two factors : 1) statistics of his performance in all forms of the game AFTER his recovery and subsequent rehabilitation and 2) his body language in any/all the matches in this period. It is clear that he is being tortured to play and to perform as he used to in his heyday.He is no spring chicken either.So he should be well advised to retire gracefully, so that all of us can recall and enjoy the highlights of his career and not continue to mourn the present pathetic image that is being thrust on us.

sehwagrokz
on March 25, 2014, 17:15 GMT

So dhoni backs Yuvraj but not Sehwag.. Both are on the same grounds right now. But why yuvraj?? I want an answer.

on March 25, 2014, 17:07 GMT

we can't forget his contribution.its just 2-3 bad innings.believe him . he'll prove again with yuvi explosion

gourabb007
on March 25, 2014, 17:07 GMT

Yuvraj is a superb player. He has got only two chances and he had not done well. But, this is no time to write him off. Who would you replace yuvraj with? Rahane? Bini? Huss. They are yet to reach their levels up to or over yuvraj's. It is perfectly wise to keep providing him chances, because once he will click, the match is ours - opponents won't matter. Media and others, please stop bashing him. Just be patient. He is a big match player. Let him play a crunch situation. He will lift himself and India.

on March 25, 2014, 17:04 GMT

yuvi will come back stronger lets hope he come fast into rhythm if nohit can get all matches by playing in 1matchin series y not yuvi

on March 25, 2014, 16:44 GMT

Before making the judgement for any player the team management should ask one question to themselves...What confidence or assurance we are giving to a very good technical player who proved himself before, is dropped from from the team for what ever reason, and made a comeback, to make him comfortable? If a player is feeling pressure it's the time for coach to pitch in to make him understand what the team's expectations are and how much talent the player has to meet the expectations and is the reason to take him into the team and, make him feel secured about his position too.

Then the player doesn't need to play to prove his talent as he just plays natural game for the country of which miracles can happen.

on March 25, 2014, 16:41 GMT

Yuvi will come back in all formats.

on March 25, 2014, 16:26 GMT

whatever the matter, he is the great hitter and good match finisher for India.. he just need some time..still he is the dangerous player in t20 format..

alokreddy
on March 25, 2014, 16:19 GMT

@rajeshNaik, best comment I've read in a while. That is what media is up to these days. If you persist with the Rainas, Rohits, jaddus for so long, I would persist with Yuvraj even longer. He is a proven match winner and however experienced you are, its a new game everyday. He has nothing to prove to the media or the world, just himself, that he can score better than any batsmen in the world and I feel strongly that his day is not too far.

krik8crazy
on March 25, 2014, 16:04 GMT

Instead of supporting our players, the press puts more pressure on them by questioning their ability midway in a tournament. Yuvi is a champion. Through sheer will power alone he can conjure up a magical innings or two. Don't be in a hurry to write him off. At least wait till the tournament is over.

SachisKing
on March 25, 2014, 16:01 GMT

Sadly, Yuvi is not the same guy anymore. He should move on. He will do well in many other fields such as hosting, comemtating, coaching etc. He has given the game all he had but illness has had its toll on him. Good luck Yuvi, we would love to see you back, but not see you struggle.

on March 25, 2014, 16:01 GMT

I have been a huge fan of Yuvraj since a long long time.Yesss!!! he looks ugly when he is in bad form but whenever he has gone through out of form chronically,he has been in his best after going through that period.One thing required as viewers watching him is the word 'Patience' .When time comes he will deliver.SOON ENOUGH.

DarthKetan
on March 25, 2014, 15:59 GMT

It was really sad to see him struggling the way he did against WI..not how you want to see your heroes. He's a champion for what he's done for India in the shorter formats and for what he's overcome personally. Wishing him the best that he can turn things around and find that self-belief! C'mon Yuvi!!!

BalaSenty
on March 25, 2014, 15:59 GMT

Unfortunately it is time for Yuvaraj to leave, he can play IPL. He can practice in world cup matches considering the poor performance of Indian team in SA and NZ. India is only hope is to win World T20 to bring cheers on Indian cricket fans. I don't think Yuvaraj will play good cricket! Let us try Binny, Rahane, yet I know they are also not so good than Yuvaraj. But we can try few more good players before next World(ODI) Cup in Aus and NZ.

SurenDXB
on March 25, 2014, 15:50 GMT

BTW how much was be paid again in IPL ?? just checking...

Raki99
on March 25, 2014, 15:46 GMT

I don't think after the cancer reemission he is the same guy, chemo and radiation can take a toll on human body and your reflexes are lost, There are was another great all rounder in the 80 and early ninties the guy's name is simon odonnel, great player and he also had the same problem, got cancer and was never the same bowler or batsman again. We will never get the yuvraj of the 2011 world cup. I think he should retire and be peace with himself.

on March 25, 2014, 15:45 GMT

Hope he is healthy. If he does well in this T20 tournament, great, else he needs to be replaced but persist with him over the entire course of the tournament.

on March 25, 2014, 15:42 GMT

Player like rohit sharma gets 100 of chances played 2 good games an then fails again are given chances but players like yuvi when they play they have effect like winning t20 and World Cup.

little biased towards yuvraj. Because this is one guy when on crease, India can always win, no matter the run rate (Lately Kohli). It'll be tough to think of a match where he stayed until the end and India lost.

But yes he is struggling... I'd still persist with him for a little while more. The Rohit's can't score in AU. Need Pujara, Rahane and hopefully firing yuvraj.

Cricket_archive
on March 25, 2014, 15:29 GMT

I agree that yuvraj is one of the greatest matchwinner India has ever produced,but i think he needs some more time to recover mentally and physically.As he was looking completely inconfident and lost in all the departments,it could have cost India a match so he needs to be replaced for now to progress further in the tournament.I am sure Yuvi will come back strong.

RajeshNaik
on March 25, 2014, 15:28 GMT

Not too long ago (to be precise on October 11, 2013), when Yuvraj scored a match winning 77 from 38 balls against Australia in one off T20 match at Rajkot, this same writer wrote a piece titled 'Yuvraj Gets His Swagger Back' (http://www.espncricinfo.com/india-v-australia-2013-14/content/story/678737.html?comments=all#usrcomment). Then I said Wow! I even commented on that piece saying its too early to say so, let Yuvrak score some runs in the ODIs that follow and then we can safely say that he has got his swagger back. Alas, reporter's curse! After that innings Yuvraj lost whatever swagger he got back and lost his place in ODI team. Now the same reporter comes out with this piece indirectly saying Yuvraj is losing his swagger, which he never got back in the first place! Why hype after just one innings? And why doubt after only 2 failures? I fail to fathom.

Vydyula_RK
on March 25, 2014, 15:23 GMT

18.1 Broad to Yuvraj Singh, SIX, that's out the ground, super shot.

18.2 Broad to Yuvraj Singh, SIX, now that really is sweet, no more than a dismissive flick off his legs, swatting a fly, and the ball arcs deep into the crowd beyond backward square leg
18.3 Broad to Yuvraj Singh, SIX, he's hitting them everywhere, he steps to leg and smashes the ball over extra cover and it keeps on travelling.
18.4 Broad to Yuvraj Singh, SIX, Shiver me timbers!: Broad goes round the wicket, bowls a filthy wide full toss and Yuvraj steers it over backward point and it clears the rope again

18.5 Broad to Yuvraj Singh, SIX, down on one knee and larruped over midwicket, that one was more nine iron, it went into the night sky and dropped with a thud in the jubilant crowd .

18.6 Broad to Yuvraj Singh, SIX, and he has, Yuvraj leans back and smacks that over wide mid-on. it was the maximum from the moment it left that bat and the crowd were roaring as it flew

on March 25, 2014, 15:20 GMT

Yuvraj was (not is) a great player. It is time to give him rest. There are good players available to replace him. Indian cricket's interest should be higher than the personal interest of one individual player. Based on performances in the recent past Yuvraj doesn't deserves to be in this team. I am still saying this after having seen that one T20 against Aus in which he did wel.

on March 25, 2014, 15:08 GMT

It's not a conundrum,he's finished

kahvas
on March 25, 2014, 15:07 GMT

Yuvi is one of the biggest matchwinners India has produced. No question of dropping him, once he finds his rhythm everyone knows what he is capable off. There is no point in talking about Rahane replacing Yuvi. If Rahane needs to be in the team, thats in place of Dhawan not Yuvi. Rahane is a natural opener for T20's and ODI's and he has been a failure in ODI's, since Dhoni always brings him at #4 or #5. Let him open with Rohit against BD.

on March 25, 2014, 15:04 GMT

Com'on guys.. He just need one confident knock to bounce back and he will be big match winner for us.crossed fingers for yuvraj..singh vl b back

inswing
on March 25, 2014, 14:55 GMT

Yuvraj has been a fantastic player in ODIs and T20s in the past. But currently, he looks woefully out of place and out of form. Not just for one match but for quite some time now. In SA he looked so bad he was promptly and rightly dropped. He looks like he simply doesn't belong at this level. He is like a big heavy chain around the team's neck - can't bat, can't bowl, can't field. India has been lucky that the first two matches were not close. But it would be a mistake to keep in because the team has won so far. If it was a meaningless series I would say keep playing him and see if he can get his form back. But he is simply unaffordable in the world cup.

on March 25, 2014, 14:47 GMT

Yuvi needs a break and rahane needs to be given a chance to see how he performs yuvi must be ready for semis

Attitudeeeee
on March 25, 2014, 14:27 GMT

yuvraj is a player of confidence. He is a dream player to have in any T20, ODI team its just a matter of time with him. Once he gets that confidence we will all see a different yuvi altogether electric in the field, few handy overs in the bowling and we cannot say anything about his batting when he is in his zone a genuine match winner. I think Dhoni is doing the right thing by persisting with we have all seen the results by doing the same with Raina, Jadeja and few others then cannnot we wait with yuvi a man who has been catalyst for us in this two world cup victories. As an ardent fan of yuvi I believe he would make an important contribution in Semi's and hopefully Final.
Hoping a good knock from u yuvi wishing you all the good luck.

bobjinder
on March 25, 2014, 14:22 GMT

Y are we talking about this the problem is that we assume things to quick yuvi played good against srilanka when the rest of the team failed and even Chris Gayle has been in a slump in the last 8 innings and the West Indians still have fair in him we are so unpatient yuvi will perform just chill

on March 25, 2014, 14:21 GMT

Yuvra is, clearly, a very sick man. You can see it in his body language, his movements. I wonder how he was even 'medically' cleared for this trip. For India's chances in this tournament, he must go - and make way for Ajinkya Rahane.

Presynaras
on March 25, 2014, 14:15 GMT

Since Yuvraj Singh is not a CSK player, everyone wants to keep faith in him and wait for him to perform. If he had been picked by CSK everyone would have said he is in the team because of favoritism. 3 yrs of cricket and 2 half centuries is Yuvi's legacy since his recovery from his illness. Time to move on.

Nampally
on March 25, 2014, 14:11 GMT

(Contd): This has become a matter where human feelings factor into the selection of Yuvraj. In order for Yuvraj to succeed, he will have to work on his footwork & defence just as hard he did on his Physical Fitness in France. His lack of self confidence is so evident from the 2 catches he floored + getting bowled to a straight ball by not presenting a straight bat to it. This is not the first time- I have seen it at lest 4 times on TV. If he plays straight bat at the start of his innings, then he can get a few singles, rotate the strike & get used to the pace of the wkt. before he gets the confidence to launch those balls into the outer orbit! Defence + Footwork is badly needed if Yuvraj can still play high level cricket. Confidence comes from success. Success comes from working hard to eliminate your deficiencies. Dhoni may give Yuvraj one more chance vs. BD. It will be his last chance & Yuvraj must make it count & prove Dhoni right in having faith in him. Good Luck, Yuvraj!

on March 25, 2014, 14:09 GMT

yuvi is a great player as everybody knows but the way he is playing now a days proves that he is not at all confident on the field T20 is a big stage event its not the stage where experiment with formless players can be made so bring Rahane as an opener and put Rohit in the middle order

RD_INDIAN
on March 25, 2014, 14:08 GMT

Yuvraj is a match winner and we need to give him time but at the same time if we want to win the t20 world cup we need to give rahane a chance as well. I agree with the abhishek tht we need to give another chance to yuvi in the game against bangladesh and if he doesnt perform then give rahane a chance against australia. Yuvraj will make a comeback sooner than later. All the best YUVI.

thedreamer
on March 25, 2014, 14:03 GMT

I'm not sure if anyone else as well has made this observation, but Yuvi has the tendency to miss the full and straight deliveries right at the beginning of his innings. Case in point - 1) The 2010 edition of World T20 vs Australia where he got bowled first ball to Nannes, 2) The 2011 WC against Pakistan where he was bowled by Wahab Riaz, 3) The 6th ODI between India and Australia at Nagpur, 2013 bowled by Johnson, 4) 1st ODI between Ind and S.Africa at Joburg bowled by McLaren, and 5) The World T20 2014 vs Pakistan, bowled by Bhatti. If one sees the manner of dismissal of Yuvi in all the above matches, it has a similar pattern - bowled by full and straight deliveries early in his innings (probably the first 2-3 balls he faces). It is disturbing, a weakness definitely, in his batting. And he needs to sort this out soon.

Poo702
on March 25, 2014, 14:03 GMT

Really.. Gr8 respect for you Yuvi.. We want to see more of you.. We want to see the gr8 Yuvraj back..and many people are ready to wait for that. Take Your time..hope the selectors understand the same.

bobjinder
on March 25, 2014, 14:03 GMT

If we had sourav ganguly he would have made sure yuvi was in form. Yuvi is a legend who got us the World Cup in t20 he made millions of dream come true and again he fulfilled what every indian was waiting for, after 23 years when he was really badly sick lets give this man who did a lot for us a bit more time it's the least we can do

cricketlover80
on March 25, 2014, 14:00 GMT

Someone needs to make him angry when he comes on to bat. Andrew Flintoff!! where are you??? I don't think anyone would dare after what he did to Stuart Broad. Sad to seem him struggling.

CricketMaan
on March 25, 2014, 13:54 GMT

Yuvi gave us a lot of happiness in his haydays! But he is struggling with form and fitness and its painful to see him play like this. A lot of them criticized MSD for trying out Raina at No.4 coz he knew that Yuvi may not play 2015, although it back fired Raina, Rahane or Rayudu seem to be the chosen for No.4 in ODIs unless Yuvi turns the table. He still has to face spin vs Bangla and Hogg vs Aus, so some work to be done, but if he can get a quick 25 or 30 will get him going by the time finals come, provided we qualify.

on March 25, 2014, 13:53 GMT

I think....in this tournament we can give last chance against Bangladesh. If he did not turn up...MSD must drop him....because we can not take a chance against Australia.

bobjinder
on March 25, 2014, 13:53 GMT

I agree with many people yuvi is a legend. He is India's best t20 player gave him time and and he will be back. And why is yuvi's form a concern shiksa dhawan got out on the second ball last game he is also out of form and as for rahane he flopped in both the warm up t20s so yuvi is a better option since he has proved to comeback

AshwinMS
on March 25, 2014, 13:51 GMT

Yuvi will be back,He will be back.Give him time,at least until this WC is over

AlbertPintoGussaHua
on March 25, 2014, 13:50 GMT

There is an expiry date for everything and everyone... even Kumble, Sachin and Dravid had to call it a day. No need to get emotional about it. When a No. 4 batsman is so overcautious that he cannot seal a T20 game with enough balls to spare, its time for him to get out of the way of emerging talent. Let's wait and see what everyone says when India lose to Bangladesh because of Yuvraj. Will they still plead his case? I don't think so...

on March 25, 2014, 13:46 GMT

yuvraj isn't a match winner any more. his career is over. he should just stick to domestic cricket

wolf777
on March 25, 2014, 13:42 GMT

Yuvraj Singh was always a weak player of spin bowling. Now he is having problem playing fast bowlers. What do you do with him then? I say drop him. Give others who are knocking on the door for a while a chance. Let Yuvraj Singh sort out his batting at the domestic level. If can regain his form,not just one off score; but, a sustained period of scoring lots of runs, bring him back. It is ridiculous that these players are dropped and then brought back on the back of a single isolated performance. Obviously, Yuvraj Singh is still the same out of form Yuvraj Singh of the Australia series.

Raj12345
on March 25, 2014, 13:41 GMT

Drop both Yuvi and Rohit. RG is good fit for MI team and not for India team in any format. RG can score 1000 of runs when ball never raises above knees that is kind of pitch given only in India. So IPL works for him.

iHitWicket
on March 25, 2014, 13:37 GMT

This is unnecessary. I believe that if Yuvi wasn't afflicted by cancer all this talk of his attitude (wore a part disenchanted, part blank look; his eyes distant) wouldn't be there. You have the affliction he had at the back of your head and are wondering if he is the same match winner he was. I think a person who has fought off cancer and bounced back into international cricket (irrespective of his past achievements like winning the world cup for India) can take care of his mood.
Give him sometime, he deserves it because, he can deliver, not because of his past achievements.
We just can't gauge that life altering experience he went through. So better talk of his game as a fair comparison with others rather than talking of his "distant look".

on March 25, 2014, 13:31 GMT

I think everybody should have faith on Yuvraj which he is definately deserving. Yuvraj is a match winner. We should remember akways. Form is temporory, class is permenent. Today everybody is praising Kohli. As every batsman in world, Kohli may loose his form in middle of his CR. Sachin, Richards, Gavaskar, Soberse...every player has gone through the phase. But they worked hard to regain there form. I am sure Yuvraj too must be working hard in nets. Still reading some comments about Rohit Sharma. Just not understanding what he needs to do now. In both matches he gave very nice start what India needed. Still some fans wants to remove him as an opener. Rediculouse. Just going through records. Since last Champions Trophy, Rohit has highest number of sixes against his name. And all sixes to worlds top class pace bowlers. Morkel, Malinga, Johnson, Southy, Nacay, Faulkner, Tsotsobe etc etc. his last four international scores are 54, 18no , 24 & 62no. Whats wrong in it ? Come on Yuvi / Rohit

on March 25, 2014, 13:29 GMT

Please give more chances to Yuvi - he will be a match winner.

Anyways we are trying and trying and trying with Shikar Dhawan & Rohit Sharma...

on March 25, 2014, 13:25 GMT

We all knew about the team structure of IPL. Ajinkya rahane is the sure opening batsman of RR. and he is the most successful opener in IPL. then why Dhoni is wasting the promising career. we also have the best finisher in T20.. That is rohit sharma. some one haven't agreed it. but the Mumbai Indians captain proved it in both IPL and international career. this is why.... we have an example of amit misra, who is coming from side bunch and proved himself. dhoni must release the remain team structure. rohit cant blast himself in the opening position. he should go to number 4...

sixesandfours
on March 25, 2014, 13:23 GMT

Yuvi needs an extra mentor to get back to his rhythm and he is not a match practivce short at the moment as he played in Domestic season for Punjab and he needs big confidence talk from captain or coach or some one like Sachin to help his confidence. Yuvi all the best and god bless you!!!

Nampally
on March 25, 2014, 13:22 GMT

Yuvraj was a fantastic Cricketer about 5 years back. His career was marred by nearly life ending cancer. He fought back from it courageously. Not only that he fought his way back into the India Cricket team even going to the extent of getting into a personalised fitness school in France for 6 months. Having done all that he is falling a victim to psychological factors which deprived him of confidence. Dhoni has bent backwards to get him into the XI & give him chances despite his failures. My biggest criticism of Yuvraj is his failure to polish his defence & footwork which he lacked. At his best Yuvraj compensated these 2 deficiencies by hitting his way out of trouble via hand -eye coordination + immense power & quickness. Now he has lost some of those improvised abilities. He is getting bowled thru' huge bat-pad gaps or by playing straight balls across the line. He needs to correct these by intensive Net practice. That is where he needs to focus.Without sound defence he cannot succeed!

on March 25, 2014, 13:06 GMT

the man who made for aggressive cricket........Give him time.....coz everyone know wat ll happen wen he s in form...if Bcci can gve time for rohith shrma...just gve yuvi more more time..........dnt threw him away pls.coz he s an upcoming legend.already proved it

SantoshPawar
on March 25, 2014, 13:05 GMT

Yuvraj is an excellent player with immense talent. He has helped India in wining the World T20 and 50-over World Cup in the past. No one doubts his abilities. As they say in Cricket, "Class is permanent, Form is temporary". The best way to deal with Yuvraj's form is to send him in as an opener and give him confidence to try to stay for longer periods in the middle and play his natural game. He will be back to his swashbuckling form sooner rather than later. Booting him out of the team is not the solution for him or Team India. Also we need to keep in mind the coming World Cup next year and Yuvraj's prime form is important to India's success there. Give him time now to regain his form and reap the benefits.

on March 25, 2014, 13:04 GMT

Yuvi is the best player in the squad... If go by the stats. He played some wonderful innings for India which resulted in India being a t20 and world champion. He gave us so many moments to proud and the time has come when the god wants a payback from us for the those moment by keeping trust on yuvi. Let's pray for the true warrior and wish him best of luck so that he can blast another inning from his wonderful bat and win this World Cup for India once again. Luv you bro for all the moment and for helping Indian team to become what it is now.

on March 25, 2014, 13:01 GMT

India will going to flop now on. They will be defeated by Bangladesh by small margin and Australia by huge margin as always.

switchgrind68
on March 25, 2014, 12:59 GMT

As history shows, Yuvraj has come up with his best for India when playing with a free mind. I personally feel he has put himself under too much pressure. It's all about Yuvi clearing the demons from within his mind. He needs to get back being the free spirited Yuvi we all know and love, and the performances will follow.

on March 25, 2014, 12:56 GMT

@sumit Dude you must be kidding.. "Drop Rohit!!!!" The batsman who scored at an avg of 58.87 in World T20s and looking in good touch should be dropped for the batsman who looked completely out of touch. No need to worry .. Continue with the same team. . ATB Yuvi.. Go INDIA...!!!

on March 25, 2014, 12:54 GMT

selectore make rong selection of yuvi he is out tuch robin uttappa is the right choice presnt he is super tuch ...what yu say guys

naren1983
on March 25, 2014, 12:53 GMT

Its matter of a match before he comes to party. In WC 2007 also, in initial matches, he didn't perform well. Then came bang against England with six sixes in an over, followed by smashing Australians in Semis. Good that we are playing Bangladesh before Australia, if he comes good against Bangladesh, then no body can help Australia from Yuvi, he like their bowlers sending to stands..... For me, he is bit seems nervous, once he back to form, he is the man to go in Super Over...

on March 25, 2014, 12:52 GMT

be good Yuvraj do good he is a ODI and T20 Master Blaster, his presence in Indian team is Cent Percent

KumarSubramanyan
on March 25, 2014, 12:46 GMT

Heart says continue with Yuvraj; Head says time to say goodbye..But just have this sneaky feeling that he is just one match away from another of his "specials"..Best wishes..

ramli
on March 25, 2014, 12:43 GMT

IPLs have not been very productive for Yuvi in recent years ... he has been a disappointment for long now ... if we listen to what the heart says, Yuvi remains ... if we follow what the mind says, he is gone already ... we made the same mistake with Sehwag for long ... we will continue to make it even in the future with somebody we love ... thinking objectively and looking into the future have never been India's forte ... very sad

Sukruti
on March 25, 2014, 12:35 GMT

I believe Yuvraj needs some nice mental conditioning. He should be reminded of his strengths and acheivements of the past. At one point of time he and Mohd. Kaif were gaurding the cover and point areas like an iron wall, just like todays Kohlis, Rainas, Rahanes

on March 25, 2014, 12:29 GMT

yuvraj Will bak

PMadhavarao
on March 25, 2014, 12:27 GMT

He should be given another chance. When he walked in against West Indies there are not much runs on the board and his mindset was just to hang around and get those runs ,, unfortunately this is not a good mindset for a batsmen like Yuvi,,,, he is a free stroke player and should be given a fair chance,

D.Sharma
on March 25, 2014, 12:26 GMT

Drop him. We don't need a non-performer. He didn't enter this team on merit. They included him because they felt guilty. He is a waste of batting space.

on March 25, 2014, 12:25 GMT

He should be retained for this World T20 matches. Particularly for match against Bangladesh which can bring back his confidence. For an alrounder like him, it is imperative to retain him for this tournament.

on March 25, 2014, 12:19 GMT

He definitely deserves More chances. When he'll be able to play more matches, he'll regain his confidence. He's one of those players who has given indian cricket a log. I don't think anybody would ask anything regarding his capabilities. We all hope he will come back soon.

on March 25, 2014, 12:15 GMT

uv is always a match winner of india and just because he could not score in two innings doesn't mean he lost his skills .. i would still favor uv to be in squad and in place of dhawan or rohit , rahane can be tested against bangladesh .

on March 25, 2014, 12:12 GMT

Before coming to a decision, I would say lets wait for the IPL. its a place where he can get his eye in and break the shackles. He still has it in him. Just needs to find a way to let go what possibly was a biggest distraction one can have in his life. Go for it Yuvi.

Kevorka
on March 25, 2014, 12:06 GMT

Why isnt any one going and speaking to yuvi?? Feel really sad for such a wonderful cricketer. :(

imtiazjaleel
on March 25, 2014, 12:03 GMT

i dont think he will get a chance to bat against Bangladesh. The top 3 will eat most of the overs if India bats first and dhoni will promote himself if they have to post a good total. If India bats second then they will have a very low score which will be easily chased down. So, I think he will get a chance against Australia and needs to prove then and there and if he fails then surely curtains for him.

FranciscoQuadros
on March 25, 2014, 12:02 GMT

Yuvi is an experienced enough player to pull himself through from this lean patch.. He's a fighter!! Always been yet he's still finding his feet in his third comeback.. The good thing for India is that they have won the first 2 T20's so I believe Yuvi can be given another chance in the next match.. If he fails again with the bat then I guess Binny should replace him and Dhoni should bat at number 5.. Let's wait for the next match versus Bangladesh and then let's decide the fate of Yuvi.. To me he is still a champion..!!

sreehk
on March 25, 2014, 12:01 GMT

There are a few players whom if you select they should be in the eleven. Yuvraj and Sehwag are of those type. No point in having such talents on bench. I am not sure whether a Rohit Sharma will win matches if given FULL support by team, but Yuvraj definitely will. It was Yuvraj who won us the ODI World Cup and first T20 world cup. If we talk of talent and match winning capabilities perhaps there is none who can match Yuvraj in cricket. He was there when India and Dhoni needed. Now he needs India and Dhoni to back him to the hilt and he will come good. My money is on Yuvraj to fire in the business half of the tournament.

on March 25, 2014, 12:00 GMT

Indian fans loves it glorious past and looks at its heroes with tinted glasses . Hence on these forums you see constant yearning for a Pathan, Gambhir or Sehwag and now Yuvraj. On current form Rahane is a better number 4 bat or even a Rayadu.
Time to thank Yuvraj for his services and give the younger guys a longer run

on March 25, 2014, 11:56 GMT

I feel should be given 2 to3 chances more

promoting up order to the batsmen

mgr125128
on March 25, 2014, 11:55 GMT

I have been a fan of Yuvraj since his debut but of course not a crazy blind fan.While it is true that we have won a couple of World cups because of Yuvi..it is also a fact that as of now he is liability. In league matches he may not prove costly but his bad form can prove costly in SF or Final. So my suggestion. Ask him to play fearlessly against BD and Aus to help him get his form. If he strikes it rich then keep him for SF or a blessing in disguise is maybe then we can introduce Binnny into mix as surprise factor. Binny may not be as good as Yuvraj when in full flow, but I have seen him since ICL games and he is definitely a worthy player who can turn around games with his hard hitting, cleaver bowling variations and superb fielding. Binny is almost a player comparable to Chris Harris of NZ

on March 25, 2014, 11:49 GMT

yuvraj is like a bomb waiting to xplode...he can single handly win matches... Letzz don't give him pressure...he will be back surely...

ramz30380
on March 25, 2014, 11:47 GMT

I think India must have Yuvi in the side at least till the end of this WC 2014 & then decide on him. He is too good a player to be warming the bench.

And no, I dont think that Rahane is the right replacement for a player of YUvi's calibre.

Yuvi's exact replacement like to like is Raina and he is already part of the XI.

Unless you find someone to fit the shoes of an explosive bat who can bowl a few overs, its better to stick with Yuvi.

If he clicks he is a destroyer and the world witnessed that not just once but twice in 2007 & 2011!

teju666
on March 25, 2014, 11:47 GMT

Cmon guys, lets not repeat our Indian cricketing history all over again. Past accomplishments and not current performance determine your future. What is the future for Yuvraj. Unlike earlier days, India has match winners up and down the order. Our outcomes are not linked to one player. So lets invest in the future. Let uvi go. He did what he had to and now that he cant, lets part gracefully. Yes,, maybe he can still deliver. But I might as well take my chance with fresh talent - Pujara, Rahane, Rayadu

on March 25, 2014, 11:46 GMT

One should remember what Yuvi is capable for, we would have not got the world cup both in 2007 (T20) and 2011 (50Overs) without him. I think its time for the coach to give him confidence and players around him should talk possitively about his past good performance. Life is a circle he is facing the pathy part of his life. I pray god Yuvi should come to his normal form by next match and he can reproduce an innings with Austrailia like he played in 2007 semifinal........Come on YUVI.....

ToofaneBatameezi
on March 25, 2014, 11:43 GMT

Just made an account to comment here. But Yuvraj seems like a nice guys and as a Pakistani, I definitely want to see him back again and glad that the captain is supportive, the whole cricketing nation should be, he defeated cancer to come back. That is one victory over lots of others.

on March 25, 2014, 11:40 GMT

Make him feel that he will not lose his place.
He has enough fire power.
He is a math winner.
He has carried cancer in lungs while winning ODI world cup for India.

For gods sake. Dont go after him.
UV we love you..

on March 25, 2014, 11:39 GMT

Yuvraj used to play pace-bowling very well. He used to be weak against spinners early on. Murali got him a few times. But he loves wickets with bounce and played Aussies, Kiwis, English, SA and Lankan fast bowlers very well. He needs some pep up and guidance. Somewhat like shewag - also very useful with the ball and brilliant at point. Maybe drop him and bring in Binny for a game or two. Don't expect him to move his feet and play like a Dravid. He is ODI material. He can be very dangerous. Remember he has come back from cancer - so he can fight. Just a matter of time he overcomes form and gets 6 sixers of an over from one of the current fast bowlers - fastest, unorthodox, baseball style, bent elbow, crooked fingers, ball-tampering or otherwise ;)

on March 25, 2014, 11:38 GMT

Now the problem is no big hitter in the squad to replace Yuvi. If Rahane has to come in he has to open not in the middle order. So Rohit should come in at 4 and Rahane should open which I don't think Dhoni will try to do. Dhoni won't take any risk with his favorite batsmen Rohit Sharma. Instead of all this we have to hope Yuvi can come back to form!! But one thing for sure Yuvi looked complete out of touch with cricket be it bating, bowling or fielding!!

ultimatewarrior
on March 25, 2014, 11:36 GMT

The correct way to play Bangladesh will be to #bat first(if win the toss) #try to score maximum possible #give chance to rahane in place of rohit sharma...(place of rohit is sure as opener is already confirm as he last hit the half century & shikhar is a lacking a good knock to raise confidence although his place is also sure) #only if openers pass through 6 overs...yuvraj should be given a chance at 3rd position before virat & raina... #if yuvraj plays well, he should be continued #if rahane also plays well rahane can be a strong bench strength #if yuvi not uses his chances he can be replaced by rahane(irrespective of rahane scores) atleast for remaining tournament....in my opinion yuvi is only match winner that india have other than virat but at this moment lacking match practice.....

rajputamarpreet
on March 25, 2014, 11:35 GMT

before start of 2011 WC , yuvi was topic of discussion that why selectors had took him, and afterwards he Proved the selectors Right!!!!!!!!!!!!

And Now all you yuvi haters or lovers , whatever you are i don't care , but yuvi will definately prove you all wrong against Australia

sumit1982
on March 25, 2014, 11:35 GMT

I a current form if any player need to axed it have to be Rohit. After India-Australia ODI series he is in dismissal form .I think Rahane should go and open with Dhawan.

I want see Dhoni come to bat before Raina he is one of the most destructive batsmen and can damage any opposition in a day like YUVi.

Artha17
on March 25, 2014, 11:34 GMT

Yuvi is a short of confidence. A stint with DADA probably will help him

on March 25, 2014, 11:33 GMT

If yuvi to be dropped the ideal candidate should be Binny as he call also fill in bowling all rounder

on March 25, 2014, 11:32 GMT

hope he seeks advise frm dravid,dada,and prove in domestic matchs as 50WC rushing.unless he comes out of this weakness selectors should seriously think abut pujara and go on.luv to see yuvi banging the ball once more

shanijkrishna
on March 25, 2014, 11:32 GMT

yuvi common you can do with bat

on March 25, 2014, 11:31 GMT

It is definitely true in the past, Yuvraj had been a champion player. He had been the man of the series in two World cups, India has won which is not a mean achievement. But he can't expect a place in the squad based on his past record. It is unfortunate, he has to be axed. This may look harsh, but those who reach the top are expected to perform consistently and maintain their reputation and are not expected to get leniency from others. Once a player becomes out of sorts, he has to give way to another youngster. If at all Yuvraj has to come back, he himself has to sort out his problems and blocks. Probably, he could mentally condition himself using a Spiritual teacher or a psychologist.

shanijkrishna
on March 25, 2014, 11:30 GMT

Yuvi, one of the best matching winning player in shorter forms of cricket. he showed this with two world cup man of the series award. definitely he can come back with match winning performance. trust him at least super 10 matches, if he fails balance two matches, keeps out from team.

on March 25, 2014, 11:28 GMT

I agree that yuvi was our trump card before,now he has lack of confidence,it is better to take rest,otherwise his reputation as a pinch hitter will be no more.just think that being a millioner without a penny for bread and butter.

on March 25, 2014, 11:28 GMT

no player can get handfull of comeback and chances...but yuvi hasnt grabed anything tillnw.... very poor allround performance even in field shame to drop those laddu catches... it is better to go wit a player short of match practice than a player short of confidence... we all knw rahane is a fast galli fielders our team evr had....

Bharatheeswaran
on March 25, 2014, 11:27 GMT

Once, before 2011 world cup, when UV was struggling for his form, it was SACHIN who helped him to regain his form. There is no one to support him on the current squad now...

pramosaini
on March 25, 2014, 11:25 GMT

It can be a make or break for Yuvi one last time :)...Best wishes

on March 25, 2014, 11:24 GMT

Youvraj has been around long enough to know that he must justify his inclusion in the playing XI by his performance on the field - with the bat, ball and fielding. There cannot be any room for any other consideration! He should get back to playing more competitive cricket in the domestic tournaments and can claim a place AFTER he has consistently performed there. Others have done it before him and he should be no exception. Better be counted, not become a baggage!

on March 25, 2014, 11:24 GMT

@Its only 1-2 games...!~ you can see the fire power of yuvi..on coming games!~
He is bit worried..about his stand in the team..which doesnt give him some room for the strock play.
Yuvi need some motivations or guidence from DADA or sachin!!
When india needed yuvi has given...!!now he need all other's support...!!
People are ready to make statements..when comes a strugly situation..no one is thier to help!!
To gain the wc2014 -2015... he badly need to be inform..!!~ Help needed from all other senior cricketers...!~~ He will definitly fight back!~ Wishing you all the best - yuvi~~~

masoodali150
on March 25, 2014, 11:22 GMT

Wish him best of luck from Pakistan. No doubt he is a great player only produce once.

Snambidi
on March 25, 2014, 11:22 GMT

No never.Yuvaraj Singh should not be axed.He is one of the Best players India ever had .this bad form for Yuvraj is not a permanent feature.This has happened before also.Every cricketer is in for this bad form .This does not mean any thing.
Just dropping a couple of catches makes no difference for a Batsman-cum- Bowler.
Remember he is an all rounder who is an asset to the Team.
If Yuvaraj is dropped or Axed many fans like me would quit watching Cricket.
Apart from all these he is the highest priced Indian in IPL.
Next two matches he would shine against BD& Aussies.on 28&30 March2014
Please do not axe him

missionbegins2011
on March 25, 2014, 11:21 GMT

Even if he does not find his rhythm, i would still play him as opposed to Rahane. Say even at his 50% than usual, he is way better than the defensive Rahane (who some how pretends to wear a mask of the next Rahul Dravid, but he is wayyyyyy far from being one)

on March 25, 2014, 11:20 GMT

dont forget India won WC just because of Yuvi....

on March 25, 2014, 11:20 GMT

It takes a day to turn around the fortunes! Yuvi would be a key player in knock outs and he has shown in past too! Cricket is the game of confidence, and for Yuvi one good qucik fiery innings would be enough to get back on track, and I am sure ot would reflect in his bowling and fielding!! #Onegoodinnings

azee_slk
on March 25, 2014, 11:19 GMT

this is a common thing mates, today one will shine tomorrow another it's normal, why u all cant understand this fact.. see what happened to shehwag and ghambir so please understand the fact of sports... :)

Rohit...
on March 25, 2014, 11:17 GMT

India don't have replacement for Yuvi... Rahane & Binny have not played great knocks in any of the T20 Warm-up matches... Rahane may replace him in ODIs but in T20, he just can't attack from the word GO... YUVI CAN... Instead of Criticizing him, Pray that HE get his touch back... Why do Indians desert their IDOL when the Idol needs them the most?

tenfan
on March 25, 2014, 11:14 GMT

Not sure why it is assumed that if Yuvi is replaced, it will be Rahane joining the XI. I think unless the plan is to move Rohit to #4 and have Rahane open with Dhawan, it doesnt make sense to incldue Rahane as he is not a big hitter which is must for middle order in T20. In case Yuvi doesnt come around against Bangaladesh ( I hope he does as he is a great player) it should be Binny how needs to be drafted in the X1 batting ay # 6 or 7 with Dhoni @ #5. He can provide another medium pace option if the pitch is not the kind where you can have 12 overs of spin

ram5160
on March 25, 2014, 11:14 GMT

The missing link is technique. Yuvraj is not a classical bowler or batsman and it shows when he is out of form. As manjrekar says, when out of form, technically correct batsmen still know how to make runs. Yuvraj has just looked clueless against Aus and now here. I feel sorry for him, it must be terrible to watch your career fade in front of you, but it is time to move on.

Rajnish_aggarwal
on March 25, 2014, 11:13 GMT

Yuvraj has played many many entertaining innings for India. India won the ODI world cup because of superlative performances from Sachin and Yuvraj. But now time is over. After the detection of cancer and its treatment Yuvraj was recalled and performed well in patches and now his performance is going down day by day. The fact is that he was selected in the team just on sympathy basis. But we are playing T-20 world cup and if we continue our policy to accommodate few undeserving players then fortune will not favor all the time. What is the fault of Rahane or Rayudu. Are they short on confidence or form. Indian selectors and Captain should stop this leniency immediately. It is team India not local club like Chennai superking or Mumbai Indians. So Dhoni should say big thankyou to Yuvraj and give chance to Rahane. If Dhawan also plays like this he should also be dropped and Rayudu should be give chance.

on March 25, 2014, 11:11 GMT

it was a game plan to play slow and not beat WI out of competition with big margins as India wud easily make to knock out stage... than it will be net run rate of Aus/Pak/WI and India will like WI to make to know out stage instead of Aus / Pak.. good thinking by captain.

Pathiyal
on March 25, 2014, 11:09 GMT

he has been endlessly looking forward to have a SINGLE GOOD GAME. hopefully, its the next. if not, we have the promising Ajinkya Rahane to fill up the gap in a big way. being a well wisher of UV, i wish he will regain his 'normalcy' soon.

on March 25, 2014, 11:07 GMT

Yuvi is the real champian .. apart from all other players in the card!! Right now he need a good coach who can give him mental support and to train again him to enjoy the cricket ..rather than fear to play his natural attacking shots..and he is not a player to do more defensive shots..better attack all bowlers. He fears on his inner mind that if he gets out .. he cannot stand in the team.. I would request our DADA to help him..like did with Raina.!!he blast any opposition!! First he should need a good guidance and coaching that he is the only one we have..who is really capable of giving world cup in hand..from his past exp! Its only one game away..if he plays his natural attacking shots..no one can stop him ..As per analysis, he loves to play good cricket when critical situation comes..!! here in two games ..its an easy win and one sided matches.!! YUVI's Match is gonna come...you can wait and watch..!! loosing yuvi from the side means...you are throwing wc2014 to other teams..!!

AB-50
on March 25, 2014, 11:06 GMT

Yuvraj is a match winning allrounder,no doubt,but is hopelessly out of form currently.Personally,I feel he should not be persisted with, especially in a World event,as it may prove costly in close finishes.
He should be tried out in a bilateral series.Also,he should have a few sessions
with a sports psychologist,who can sort out his mental issues,as it is mostly in a palyer's mind and one failure leads to another.The coming IPL season may also be a good time to get his rythm back.

on March 25, 2014, 11:05 GMT

he deserves at least one more chance like rohit and raina got more than that in the past ...so somebody speak to him ...he looks like alone in the team ... best wishes yuvi ..we want u back ..

on March 25, 2014, 11:04 GMT

I think yuvi is totally low on confidence nd this effect the team a lot if we persist with him. I think we need to play rahane from next match itself

on March 25, 2014, 11:02 GMT

com'on Yuvi...We are wih you....Every Indian is with you...just go there and smash some sixes...com'on...

on March 25, 2014, 10:58 GMT

You just cannot keep someone in the team because he played some good cricket long time back. You are killing other good players' morale and spirit. Why is Yuvraj still there and why this was not the case with Virender Sehwag? He also deserves a comeback.

BnH1985Fan
on March 25, 2014, 10:55 GMT

If I were Yuvi, I would insist a younger chap (Rahane) replace me!

on March 25, 2014, 10:51 GMT

yuvaraj singh is king .he has own T20 WC 2007 & ODI WC 2011 for india .he will come back soon.

welleft
on March 25, 2014, 10:49 GMT

Feel sorry for Yuvraj..Such a huge match winner in the past.. hope he gets his confidence back...

No featured comments at the moment.

welleft
on March 25, 2014, 10:49 GMT

Feel sorry for Yuvraj..Such a huge match winner in the past.. hope he gets his confidence back...

on March 25, 2014, 10:51 GMT

yuvaraj singh is king .he has own T20 WC 2007 & ODI WC 2011 for india .he will come back soon.

BnH1985Fan
on March 25, 2014, 10:55 GMT

If I were Yuvi, I would insist a younger chap (Rahane) replace me!

on March 25, 2014, 10:58 GMT

You just cannot keep someone in the team because he played some good cricket long time back. You are killing other good players' morale and spirit. Why is Yuvraj still there and why this was not the case with Virender Sehwag? He also deserves a comeback.

on March 25, 2014, 11:02 GMT

com'on Yuvi...We are wih you....Every Indian is with you...just go there and smash some sixes...com'on...

on March 25, 2014, 11:04 GMT

I think yuvi is totally low on confidence nd this effect the team a lot if we persist with him. I think we need to play rahane from next match itself

on March 25, 2014, 11:05 GMT

he deserves at least one more chance like rohit and raina got more than that in the past ...so somebody speak to him ...he looks like alone in the team ... best wishes yuvi ..we want u back ..

AB-50
on March 25, 2014, 11:06 GMT

Yuvraj is a match winning allrounder,no doubt,but is hopelessly out of form currently.Personally,I feel he should not be persisted with, especially in a World event,as it may prove costly in close finishes.
He should be tried out in a bilateral series.Also,he should have a few sessions
with a sports psychologist,who can sort out his mental issues,as it is mostly in a palyer's mind and one failure leads to another.The coming IPL season may also be a good time to get his rythm back.

on March 25, 2014, 11:07 GMT

Yuvi is the real champian .. apart from all other players in the card!! Right now he need a good coach who can give him mental support and to train again him to enjoy the cricket ..rather than fear to play his natural attacking shots..and he is not a player to do more defensive shots..better attack all bowlers. He fears on his inner mind that if he gets out .. he cannot stand in the team.. I would request our DADA to help him..like did with Raina.!!he blast any opposition!! First he should need a good guidance and coaching that he is the only one we have..who is really capable of giving world cup in hand..from his past exp! Its only one game away..if he plays his natural attacking shots..no one can stop him ..As per analysis, he loves to play good cricket when critical situation comes..!! here in two games ..its an easy win and one sided matches.!! YUVI's Match is gonna come...you can wait and watch..!! loosing yuvi from the side means...you are throwing wc2014 to other teams..!!

Pathiyal
on March 25, 2014, 11:09 GMT

he has been endlessly looking forward to have a SINGLE GOOD GAME. hopefully, its the next. if not, we have the promising Ajinkya Rahane to fill up the gap in a big way. being a well wisher of UV, i wish he will regain his 'normalcy' soon.